Replacing Top 2022s: Part One
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The high school season is officially underway but many of the state’s top teams are faced with having to reload their rosters to make a return trip to Rupp Arena in March. Here’s a look at how some schools will…
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Continue ReadingThe high school season is officially underway but many of the state’s top teams are faced with having to reload their rosters to make a return trip to Rupp Arena in March. Here’s a look at how some schools will look to replace their D1 Seniors who are now playing college ball.
Amiya Jenkins, Anderson County –> Lainey Johnson Lainey Johnson 5'11" | SG Anderson County | 2025 State KY
Anderson graduated a TON of talent, including 2022’s Miss Basketball in Jenkins. Lainey is the top returning scorer and will need to step up into a gigantic role to avoid a big fall off this season. It would be hard for one player to replace Miss Basketball but Johnson has the offensive skills to at least replicate her scoring output this season.
Riley Neal, North Oldham –> Katelyn Vize
Katelyn Vize
Katelyn Vize
Riley Neal is probably (definitely?) the best player in North Oldham history. Replacing her is not going to be easy because she did everything for her team to be successful. The most likely candidate to step up and fill that void is Katelyn Vize. The Senior forward is going to have her hands full trying to keep North competitive as they are going to have a serious rebuild on their hands this season.
Gracie Merkle, Bullitt East –> Lyla Packer
Lyla Packer
Lyla Packer
Merkle is one of the best bigs that the state has seen in the last decade or so and will not be easily replaced. Packer is only an 8th grader but will have a good chance to become an elite post player in time. Already possessing elite size, Lyla will only get better as she adds strength and ups her overall skill level. Keep an eye on this 2027 prospect!
Cassidy Rowe, Shelby Valley –> Kyra Looney
Kyra Looney
Kyra Looney
Shelby Valley is in the midst of a total reload as they have to replace their top two players from a season ago as well as their longtime head coach. They have some young talent and Kyra Looney will need to lead them as they transition into a new era for the program. Look for Kyra to be about a 18 point per game scorer this season.
Jaya McClure, CAL –> Ella Daniels Ella Daniels 5'10" | CG Christian Academy Louisville | 2024 State KY
CAL had the answer at the point guard spot for years with McClure but after a long and decorated career, she’s gone to college and there’s a big hole at the point guard spot for the Centurions. Daniels has been waiting her time for the past few seasons and should get first crack at the point guard spot this season. She’s a capable player who had a good AAU season and is ready for the opportunity.